I wear and have sold combat boots from Danner, Corcoran, Altama and Condor. Oakley is a sunglass company. They license out their name for other products like clothing, luggage, and shoes.

If you like really tall sneakers, the oakley boot might suit you, but in selling their low-top, the shoe didn't fit many of our customers very well.

Having worn combat boots and listened to people to wear them for work (California Air Guard Pararescue, Sheriff's Deputy and county Search & Rescue), if your boot can't take a serious beating on a daily basis, you'll be a very unhappy camper. If you can get your hands on the oakley boot, you might question their durability.

For US$225 they're not Gore-Tex, not slip resistant, not full grain leather, and not resoleable. I've only ever seen one pair on a person, and haven't heard of a shop that will carry them.

Sorry to be so down, but as a shoe guy, I have opinions much like your mechanic. A very distinctive look, but not worth it.